COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, November 4, 1999 10:15 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN AUGUSTA A. CLARK COUNCILMAN DARRYL L. CLARKE COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 GREETING/INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S
I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. Council will come to order, Members will take their seats, and visitors will retire to seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Rabbi Abraham Novitsky. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Cohen. Members and guests will please rise. Rabbi? (All rise.)
Almighty God, our Father in heaven, this is a time for healing. We have just experienced the very close and a very fair election in our City of Philadelphia. It was an election not marred by ugly accusations and fighting, like in other elections, but between two very wonderful and qualified gentlemen who always treated each other with respect. They were both an honor and a credit to our city. Now we must all work together for our city, which is one of the best in our country, a city we can all be proud of. JOURNAL APPROVAL May all the decisions of City Council meet with success. Bless the work of all the committees who work so dedicated and diligently for the City of Philadelphia. Let us all pull together and work together with confidence and trust for each other. May God bless all of you, the representatives our great city, with peace and harmony and with the strength and ability to lead us in the coming new century. Amen. ALL: Amen.
The Chair thanks the Rabbi for his very inspiring invocation. Thank you, Rabbi. Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of the meeting of October 21, 1999. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Madam President, I move the adoption of Journal of that date. LEAVES OF ABSENCE (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, October 21, 199 stand approved. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carries. The Journal of Thursday, October 21, 1999, is approved.
The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Madam President, there are no requests for a leave of absence on the part of the Majority.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the Republicans, there VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS are no requests for leaves of absence.
The Chair will dispense the order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all Members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session this morning. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We invite to you come again. This morning, Council is honoring Dr. Diego Castellanos and Mr. Craig Welburn. I invite Councilman Ortiz to come to make this presentation. Will the gentlemen and those accompanying them please join us at the podium. (Honorees and Councilman Ortiz come forward.)
Good morning. And congratulations to all the victors, and to Jim Kenny for coming in number 1 in the city in the at-large; David Cohen, number 2; and I came in number 3. (Laughter.) VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS
Thank you. This is sort of belated 'cause we're usually not in session when the Puerto Rican Week Festival takes place. And every year, we honor a couple of individuals from the city who have been helpful to the Puerto Rican community throughout the years and who have been exemplars and good citizens. This year, we honor two individuals: Diego Castellanos and Mr. Craig Welburn, two very good friends of mine and of the Puerto Rican community. And it says: The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased to join the Puerto Rican Week Festival Committee Annual Gala Celebration as they recognize the contributions of Dr. Diego Castellanos and Mr. Craig Welburn for their many years of leadership, commitment, and service to the Latino community and to the City of Philadelphia. Whereas, for 29 years, Dr. Diego Castellanos has effectively represented the VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS interests of Latinos, as demonstrated through his pioneering creation of the longest-running television show about Puerto Rican affairs and Culture, "Puerto Rican Panorama"; and Whereas, Dr. Diego Castellanos has dedicated his life to the fight for quality bilingual education and has been a staunch and effective proponent of school desegregation and many civil rights causes; and Whereas, Mr. Craig Welburn has spent a significant part of his adult life as a dedicated and socially responsible business owner of several McDonald restaurants; and Whereas, Craig Welburn is recognized for his fervent work ethic and his exemplary dedication to charitable causes that have helped advance the social and economic well-being of the Puerto Rican and Latino communities; and Whereas, the Puerto Rican Week Festival Committee has bestowed upon Dr. Diego Castellanos the honor of serving as the 1999 Citizen of the Year and has selected Craig Welburn to be the 1999 Honorary Citizen of the Year; Now therefore resolved that the Council VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS of the City of Philadelphia is pleased to join the Puerto Rican Week Festival Week Committee's Annual Gala Celebration as they recognize the contribution of Dr. Diego Castellanos and Mr. Craig Welburn for their many years of leadership, commitment, and service to the Latino community and the City of Philadelphia. Further resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Diego Castellanos and to Mr. Craig Welburn as an expression of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body. Certification that this is a true and correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the City Council City of Philadelphia on the 23rd day of September, 1999, and signed by Anna Verna, President of City Council, introduced by Angel Ortiz and Richard Mariano and sponsored by Councilmembers of all Council. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Dr. Castellanos for remarks and Mr. Welburn.
Thank you. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS First of all, I want to thank Councilman Ortiz for presenting me with this wonderful citation, which I'm very appreciative of. And I want to thank Council for having us here this morning and letting us be a part of your session this morning. I also want to thank the Latino community for being very supportive of me over the years and for honoring me as the Honorary Citizen of the Year. And I'd like to also take a moment to thank the Councilmen and women that were just recently elected and reelected to their positions, and just take a moment to say to Gussie, who is leaving, best of success to you. (Applause.)
I know you have a full agenda so I'm just going to be very brief. But I do want to thank members of Council for this, especially Councilman Ortiz for sponsoring this initiative. I'm very proud and I'm very happy to receive this. Of course, none of this would be possible without the support 6-ABC here in VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Philadelphia. So, obviously, they play a big part in my being recognized by the community and by the Council. So I want to thank them and, of course, the viewers who loyally and faithfully watch Puerto Rican Panorama week after week. I'm so surprised when I walk into a place like this and people I never met before come up to me and tell me that they watch the show every week. I really appreciate it and I thank you all again. Bye. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
Our second presentation this morning recognizes the anniversary of the birth of William Penn. I invite Councilwoman Clark to come and make this presentation. Will Miss Elaine Peden and Mr. Jay Meyers come forward. (Above-mentioned individuals come forward.) VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS
Madam President, for the last time in this century, it is my honor to read this resolution recognizing the legacy of William Penn on the anniversary of his birth, October 24th, just past. Whereas, Philadelphians recognize the founding by William Penn of our city, the birthplace of the nation; and Whereas, Penn extended friendship and fair dealing to the Native Americans and established our city and state as a haven for oppressed people of the world to whom he offered religious and civil liberties and high standards of justice; and Whereas, William Penn was far ahead of his time as an untiring advocate of representative government, city planning, penal reform, humane mental institutions, and public education for everyone, and one of the first statesmen to envision the unification of the American colonies; and Whereas, William Penn, through his holy experiment, introduced into our city and state a humanitarian code of law, which was honored in VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS 1751 by the casting of the Liberty Bell; and Whereas, Penn's belief in the nonviolent settlement of disputes among individual states and nations continues to guide and inspire us today. Now, therefore, resolved by the City of Philadelphia that we hereby recognize the legacy of William Penn, founder of this city and citizen of the first order, on the anniversary of his birth, October 24th. Resolved that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Jay Meyers and Elaine Peden, co-chairs of Friends of William Penn, as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body. This is a true correct copy of the original resolution adopted by the Council of the City of Philadelphia on the 23rd day of September, 1999, signed by Anna C. Verna, President, introduced by Augusta A. Clark, and cosponsored by every member of Council. (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Mr. Meyers for remarks. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS
Yes. Thank you very much, Madam President. Elaine Peden and I would like to first thank everybody, all the members of Council for permitting us to appear before you again this year. Elaine, by the way, was you may be interested to know, was single-handedly responsible for having federal citizenship, honorary federal citizenship conferred upon William Penn and his wife. But moving along, we want to first say, on behalf of the Friends of William Penn, we congratulate all those people who have been reelected and the new Mayor. We hope and pray that with this new leadership that the city will grow and continue to prosper, and that everyone will enjoy the fruits and dreams of William Penn as he saw this city. This city was, more than 300 years ago, a very holy experiment for William Penn. He viewed this city with tremendous dreams and vision. And we continue to hope and pray, as I said before, that we will be the great city as he planned it. And we also want to say thank you very VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS much for permitting us to be here today, and we wish everyone good health. But before we adjourn, we have here Mr. William Penn. Now, his voice is -- he has some years on him, but his voice is still strong, and he's going well. So I'd like to introduce Mr. William Penn. (Applause.).
Good morning. It's so nice to be back here in my dream country town, City of Brotherly. . . Love, yes. Try it with me, City of Brotherly Love. Oh, you've just be through an election, haven't you. Wait a minute. City of Brotherly Love. Oh, much better. You know, there's a wonderful quality of being a time traveler, going around the globe but coming back to Philadelphia and seeing this whole place from a vantage point above this very building. Something extraordinary happened just about a week ago, that eight Indian chiefs were memorialized at a place called St. Peter's Church, at Third and Pine Street, here in my city. VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Of course, religious freedom allowed the Anglicans to have religious their freedom and to practice freely, but the Indians were my idea of brotherhood. I wrote a letter to them before arriving to these shores in 1682, and they lived as brothers with us all for many, many years. And these Indian chiefs have now been commemorated. A big sign to their honor has been planted on the soil of Philadelphia honoring them as brothers to us all. So brotherhood flourishes here in Philadelphia. I'm very, very pleased about it all. So thank you very much on behalf of my wife, Hannah, and on behalf of all the friends I have here, Friends of William Penn. It's a great honor. Thank you so much. (Applause.)
Council will be at ease. (Council stands at ease.)
The next order of business is communications. COMMUNICATIONS The Chair requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms deliver the messages from the Mayor to the Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will read the messages from the Mayor.
October 27, 1999, to the President and Members of the Council City of Philadelphia, I am pleased to advise you that I have today signed the following bills: Bill No. 990250, 990254, and 990463. And I am transmitting herewith for your introduction and consideration of your honorable body the following five resolutions reappointing current members of the Board of Directors of the Center City District. And an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending certain provisions of Section 14-305. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a deed for a property located at 1307-9 South Broad Street. And an ordinance authorizing the COMMUNICATIONS revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 97 by relocating a portion of the southerly curb line of Pemberton Street. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to purchase in lieu of condemnation or to select and appropriate certain lots or parcels of ground located at Jefferson Street, Fourth Street, Harlan Street, and Lawrence Street. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement of lease with the African-American Museum, in Philadelphia. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for further sublease of the University of Sciences in Philadelphia. And an ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City, to enter into an agreement with the owners of the property and their successors of a P-shaped private street COMMUNICATIONS known as Parkwood Lane. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development a property located at 1602 through 44 North American Street. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease agreement with Center in the Park. And an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, without consideration, a deed conveying fee simple title to a property at 5751 North Broad Street. And an ordinance authorizing the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to acquire fee simple title from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania of a tract of land located on Roosevelt Boulevard. And an ordinance repealing Section 9-614, entitled "Home Repair Business." And an ordinance authorizing transfers COMMUNICATIONS and appropriations for Fiscal Year 2000, within the Aviation Fund. And an ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1999 within the General Fund. And an ordinance authorizing transfers and appropriations for Fiscal Year 1999 within the Aviation Fund from certain or all City offices, departments, boards, and commissions.
These messages will be printed in the Journal. The Chief Clerk will read any other communications in her possession.
The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark for a motion.
I have no bills or INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS resolutions today, and I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of their introduction. (Duly seconded.)
All in favor of the motion to suspend the rules to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction will vote aye? Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. Councilwoman Clark, you have no bills or resolutions today?
That's right, Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
The Chair thanks the Councilwoman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.
Thank you, Madam President. This morning, I have two bills and one resolution. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The Chief Clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 246 by striking from the City Plan and vacating 42nd Street from Woodland Avenue to 43rd Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property of the City of Philadelphia to enter into a lease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for further sublease to the University of Sciences in Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution recognizing November 7 through November 13, 1999 as "Islamic Youth Heritage Week" in the City of Philadelphia. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.
Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 194 by striking from the City Plan Hope Street, from York Street to Cumberland Street, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, without consideration, a deed for properties situate at 1602 through 44 North American Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I offer two bills and one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code entitled, "Zoning and Planning," by amending INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS certain provisions of Section 14-305 entitled "C4 Commercial and C5 Commercial Districts."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance repealing Section 9-614, entitled "Home Repair Businesses," and Section 9-1002, entitled "Roofers," of the Philadelphia Code.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing City Council to closely monitor, support, and urge all Philadelphia firefighters and fire paramedics to be anonymously tested; and if detected, undergo treatment for Hepatitis C, which has been linked to the exposure of the Fire Department personnel in the performance of their daily duties.
Thank you, Madam President. I move the adoption of the resolution. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a lease amendment with Center in the Park, a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation formerly known as "Center for Older Adults Northwest, Inc."
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
Thank you, Madam President. I offer four bills and one resolution.
The clerk will please the read title of the first bill.
An ordinance to authorize the Water Commissioner, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement with the owners of the properties and their successors of a P-shaped private sheet known as Parkwood Lane.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Manayunk Canal, the Schuylkill River, and Fountain Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
And an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-200, entitled "Residential Districts," by repealing Section 14-221. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance amending Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Zoning and Planning," by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by amending Section 14-1615, entitled "Main Street Manayunk Special District Controls," by establishing and use and zoning controls, under certain terms and conditions.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia a deed for properties situate in the 52nd Ward of the City of Philadelphia.
Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, I offer one bill and one resolution.
The clerk will please read the title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, without consideration, a deed conveying fee simple title to a certain tract of City-owned land, with the buildings and improvements thereon situate at 5751 North Broad Street.
The bill will INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS be referred to the appropriate committee.
Madam President, I move for the adopted of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution authorizing the Committee on Public Safety to hold hearings on the efficacy of the investigation and INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS prosecution of sex crimes in the City, including, but not limited to, the practices and procedures of the Philadelphia Police Department Special Victims Unit's use of a non-offensive code 2701 and code 2625, in order to keep many rape cases out of the official crime tally, the accuracy of the locations and the facilities for servicing rape victims, and any current proposals by the Police Department, the FBI, and other criminal justice system advocacies, groups, and citizens on how these crimes should be handled in the City of Philadelphia.
The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
The clerk will please read the title of the first bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to execute and deliver to the Philadelphia Authority INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS for Industrial Development a deed conveying fee simple title to a certain tract of City-owned land situate at 1307-09 South Broad Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing Filbert Street Associates LP, 150 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, owners of the property bounded by 12th Street, 13th Street, Filbert Street, and Cuthbert Street, to construct, own, and maintain a bridge over Cuthbert Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 97 by relocating a portion of the southerly curb line of Pemberton Street.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property to purchase in lieu of condemnation or to select and INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS appropriate certain lots or parcels of ground within the area bounded by Jefferson Street, Fourth Street, Harlan Street, and Rhawn Street.
This bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into an agreement of lease with the African-American Museum in Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Clarke.
Thank you, Madam President. I have one ordinance and six resolutions.
The clerk INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS will please read title of the bill.
An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Public Property, on behalf of the City of Philadelphia, to enter into a sublease agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development for use by the City and affiliated agencies of the office space located at 1401 Arch Street, Philadelphia.
The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. May I suggest that the clerk read the titles of the six resolutions, please.
A resolution appointing Christine Madigan to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. A resolution appointing Ronald Rubin to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. A resolution appointing Edward Vasconcellos, Jr. to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. And a resolution appointing Ernest E. Jones, Esquire, to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS And a resolution appointing John K. Binswanger to the Board of Directors of the Center City District. And a resolution appointing Judith Eden to the Board of Directors of the Center City District.
The six resolutions will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth. He's not in the room?
He said he would be back in time before the end of the session. He had to step outside.
And he had indicated that he had no bills or resolutions. At this point, the Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.
I have one resolution, Madam President. INTRODUCTION - BILLS, RESOLUTIONS
The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.
A resolution honoring the Tyrone Gaelic Football Club of Philadelphia upon celebrating its 50th anniversary Jubilee.
I move for the adoption of this resolution. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the resolution has been adopted.
The next order of business is reports from committees. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Rules Committee. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Thank you, Madam President. The Rules Committee reports out four bills with a favorable recommendation.
The clerk will please read title of the report, please.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Rules, to which was referred. . . Bill No. 970590, an ordinance amending Section 12-2405 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Removal of or Immobilization of Parked Vehicles Notice," by authorizing the towing or immobilization of any vehicle parked in violation of Section 12-901(a)(1) of the Code, which prohibits the parking of vehicles upon any roadway. Bill No. 980048, an ordinance amending Chapter 9-1600 of the Philadelphia Code relating to the prohibition against unlawful eviction practices by excepting from the definition of "landlord" a nonprofit landlord operating a boardinghouse or a lodging house. And Bill No. 980550, an ordinance COMMITTEE REPORTS amending the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by Washington Avenue, Seventh Street Tasker Street, and Front Street. And Bill No. 980684, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by amending Section 14-1607, entitled "Special Controls for Center City Commercial Area." And Bill No. 990425, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by amending Section 14-1607, entitled "Special Controls for the Center City Commercial Area," under certain terms and conditions. And Bill No. 990601, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by the Schuykill Expressway, Arch Street, 30th Street, John F. Kennedy Boulevard, certain Amtrak SEPTA property COMMITTEE REPORTS lines, and a line parallel to the center line of certain Conrail high line and parallel to and located approximately 800 feet north of Broad Street. . . . respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bills to Council with a favorable recommendation.
The noise level is really much too high in here. Can we please quiet it down. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 970590 and 980048 today.
I'm sorry, my mistake. I move that Bill No.'s 970590 and 980048 be reported out of committee with favorable recommendations. Madam Chair, I move that all bills read by the Chief Clerk be reported out favorably.
It is my COMMITTEE REPORTS understanding that Bill No. 970590 was being requested to be on the calendar for our next meeting. Is that true?
Madam Chair, give me a minute at sidebar, and I will try to figure this out.
Please, please. (Council President Verna and Councilman Kenney confer at sidebar.)
Thank you, Madam President. I move that Bill No's 980550 and 980048, as amended, and 980684, 990425, and 990601, that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of those bills today. And that Bill No. 970590 will be reported out of this committee with a favorable recommendation for a first reading next week. (Duly seconded.)
It has been COMMITTEE REPORTS moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No.'s 980048, 980550, 980684, 990425, and 990601 be suspended and be placed on today's calendar. All in favor of that motion will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? Those bills will be placed on the first-reading calendar today. And Bill No. 970590 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for our next meeting. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for a report from the Finance Committee.
Madam President, the Finance Committee reports out Bill 990570.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 990570, an ordinance amending Section 19-201 of the Philadelphia Code COMMITTEE REPORTS entitled "City Depositories," by authorizing the City Treasurer to deposit funds in Asian Bank, under certain terms and conditions.
Thank you. The Finance Committee reports that Bill No. 990570 be reported out of committee with a favorable recommendation.
Bill No. 990570 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for our next meeting. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Streets and Services Committee.
Thank you, Madam President. The Streets and Services Committee reports 21 bills out with a favorable recommendation.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Streets and Services Committee, to which was referred. . . Bill No. 990162, an ordinance COMMITTEE REPORTS establishing a parking regulation on Seventh Street,, both sides,, Christian Street to Carpenter Street. Bill No. 990163, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Clarion Street, west side, Jackson Street to Wolf Street. Bill No. 990164, establishing a parking regulation on Clarion Street, west side, Dickinson Street to Tasker Street. Bill No. 990184, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on York Street,, both sides,, Jasper Street to Front Street. Bill No. 990335, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Rhawn Street, both sides, from Jeans Street to Tabor Road. Bill No. 990336, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Verree Road, both sides, from Hartel Street to Ripley Street. Bill No. 990426, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Susquehanna Road, both sides, from Pine Street to Verree Road. Bill No. 990534, an ordinance authorizing Filbert Associate, LP, 150 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the owner of COMMITTEE REPORTS the property bounded by 12th Street, 13th Street, Filbert Street, and Cuthbert Street, to construct and maintain various building footings. Bill No. 990335, an ordinance authorizing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 121, by striking and vacating Chang Street from Girard Avenue to Poplar Street. Bill No. 990546, an ordinance authorizing Christopher Ryan, owner of the property 726 North 24th Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain various encroachments -
Ms. Hauser just a moment. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.
Madam President, point of order. I believe that the prior bill should have read 990535. I think I heard it basically read as 335.
Excuse me. Ms. Hauser. COMMITTEE REPORTS At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.
Madam President, excuse me, but I'd like to be excused from Council for Council business, and I would like to have my vote recorded on all bills as aye.
Bill No. 990536, an ordinance authorizing Christopher Ryan, owner of the property 726 North 24th Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain various encroachments onto and over the south footway of Meredith Street. Bill No. 990561, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Christian Street, both sides, 17th Street to 18th Street. Bill No. 990567, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the following intersections on Green Street: Silverwood Street and Baker Street. Bill No. 990568, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the intersection of 65th Street and Lansdowne COMMITTEE REPORTS Avenue. Bill No. 990569, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the following intersections on Indian Queen Lane: Haywood, Krail, Wiehle and Vaux Street. Bill No. 990571, an ordinance granting permission to Frank Milorey, owner of the newsstand northwest corner of 12th and Market Streets, to construct, use, and maintain an electrical conduit and service line and a fiber optic conduit and phone service line in and under is 12th Street and Market Street. Bill No. 990606, an ordinance granting permission to Level 3 Communications, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company registered to do business in Pennsylvania, and its successors, assigns, and agents to construct, maintain, and operate, replace and remove telecommunications systems in and under the public right-of-way and City streets. Bill No. 990618, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the following intersections on Valley Avenue: Hagner Street and Wigard Avenue. COMMITTEE REPORTS Bill No. 990619, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the following intersections on Houghton Street: Roxborough Avenue and Walnut Lane. Bill No. 990620, an ordinance authorizing the changing of the name of a portion of Hornig Road from a point approximately 1,000 feet southeast of Kubach Road to Woodhaven Road to "Corney Drive." Bill No. 990621, an ordinance authorizing the changing the name of Corney Road from McNulty Road to a dead end northwardly therefrom to "Commerce Way." Bill No. 990622, an ordinance establishing a park regulation on Dunk's Ferry Road, both sides, from Mechanicsville Road to the county line. . . . respectfully that reports it has considered -And Bill No. 990452 is being reported out as a withdrawn bill.
Thank you, Madam COMMITTEE REPORTS President. I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of the 21 bills that have just been read into the record. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of these bills on today's calendar. Those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The motion is carried, and Bill No.'s 990162, 990163, 990164, 990184, 990335, 990336, 990426, 990534, 990535, 990536, 990561, 990567, 990568, 990569, 990571, 990606, 990618, 990619, 990620, 990621, and 990622 will be placed on or our first-reading calendar for today. The record will reflect that Bill No. 990452 has been withdrawn. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a report from the Committee on Licenses and Inspections.
Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Licenses and COMMITTEE REPORTS Inspections reports out one bill with a favorable recommendation.
The clerk will please read the title of the report.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The committee on Licenses and Inspections, to which was referred Bill No. 960085, an ordinance amending Title 9 of the Philadelphia Code relating to regulation of businesses, trades, and professions by amending Chapter 9-200, entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets," and by amending various sections of the chapter to prohibit the sale and distribution of goods bearing counterfeit trademarks and providing and for seizure and forfeiture of such goods, under certain terms and conditions.
Madam President I move that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 960085 today. (Duly seconded.)
It has been COMMITTEE REPORTS moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 960085 on today's calendar. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion is carried. Bill No. 960085 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter for a report from the Commerce and Economic Development Committee.
Madam President, the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development reports out one bill.
The clerk will please read the title of the report.
To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The committee on Commerce and Economic Development, to which was referred Bill No. 990563, an ordinance amending Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," by adding a new Chapter 17-900, COMMITTEE REPORTS entitled "Neighborhood Benefit Strategy," which provides for the implementation and administration of a neighborhood benefit strategy for housing, commercial development, community revitalization, and public development projects sponsored or supported by the City of Philadelphia, respectfully reports that it has considered and amended the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Thank you, Madam President. I move rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 990563 today. (Duly seconded.)
It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No. 990563, as amended, on today's calendar. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? COMMITTEE REPORTS The ayes have it and the motion is carried. Are there any other reports from committees? (No response.)
Seeing none, we will now consider bills on our first-reading calendar. Ms. Hauser, we'll start with the Rules Committee, please.
Bill No. 990601, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area generally bounded by the Schuylkill Expressway, Arch Street, 30th Street, John F. Kennedy Boulevard, and certain Amtrak-SEPTA property lines.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney. Did you have your light on? Please proceed, Ms. Hauser. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Bill No. 990425, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, entitled "Miscellaneous," by amending Section 14-1607, entitled "Special Controls for the Center City Commercial Area."
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
Bill No. 980684, an ordinance amending Title 14 of the Philadelphia Code relating to zoning and planning by amending Chapter 14-1600, "Miscellaneous," by amending Section 14-1607, entitled "Special Controls for the Center City Commercial Area."
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
Bill No. 980550, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia zoning maps by changing the zoning designations of certain areas of land located within an area bounded by COMMITTEE REPORTS Washington Avenue, Seventh Street, Tasker Street, an Front Street.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting. Go to L&I next, please.
Bill No. 960085, an ordinance amending Title 9 of The Philadelphia Code relating to the regulation of businesses, trades, and professions by amending Chapter 9-200 commercial, entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets," and by amending various sections of the chapter to prohibit the sale and distribution of goods bearing counterfeit trademarks, and providing for seizure and forfeiture, under certain terms and conditions.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage COMMITTEE REPORTS calendar for the next meeting. Please read the bill from the Commerce and Economic Development Committee, please.
Bill No. 990563, an ordinance amending Title 17 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Contracts and Procurement," by adding a new Chapter 17-900, entitled "Neighborhood Benefit Strategy," which provides for the application, implementation, and administration of neighborhood benefit strategy for housing and commercial development, community revitalization, and public development projects sponsored or supported by the City of Philadelphia.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting. We'll now go into the Streets and Services report, please.
Bill No. 990622, an ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Dunk's Ferry Road, both sides, from Mechanicsville Road to the county line. COMMITTEE REPORTS
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
Bill No. 990621, an ordinance authorizing the changing of the name of Corney Road from McNulty Road to a dead end northwesterly therefrom to "Commerce Way."
The Chair agrees. This bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
Bill No. 990620, an ordinance authorizing the changing of the name of a portion of Hornig Road from a point approximately 1,000 feet southeast of Kubach Road.
The Chair agrees. The bill read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on our second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
May I suggest, Ms. Hauser, that we just read the titles of the next bills. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Fine. Bill No. 990619, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the following intersection of Houghton Street. Bill No. 990618, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at the following intersections on Valley Avenue: Hagner Street and Wigard Avenue. And an ordinance granting permission to Level 3 -
606, right. An ordinance granting permission to Level 3 Communications, LLC. Bill No. 990571, granting permission to Frank Milorey, owner of the newsstand located at the northwest corner of 12th and Market Streets. Bill No. 990569, authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs. Bill No. 990568, authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs at 65th Street. Bill No. 990567, an ordinance authorizing the installation of all-way stop signs COMMITTEE REPORTS on Green Lane. Bill No. 990561, establishing a parking regulation on Christian Street. Bill No. 990536, an ordinance authorizing Christopher Ryan to construct an encroachment. Bill No. 990535, authorizing the revision of lines and grades. Bill No. 990534, an ordinance authorizing Filbert Street Associates to maintain an encroachment. Bill No. 990426, establishing a parking regulation on Susquehanna Road. Bill No. 990336, establishing a parking regulation on Verree Road. Bill No. 990335, establishing a parking regulation on Rhawn Street. Bill No. 990184, establishing a parking regulation York Street,, both sides,. Bill 990164, establishing a parking regulation on Clarion Street. Bill No. 990163, establishing a parking regulation on Clarion Street. Bill No. 990162, establishing a parking FINAL READING - BILL 990495 regulation on Seventh Street and Christian Street.
The Chair agrees. The bills read by the Chief Clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.
The next order of business is consideration of bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Madam President, today, all bills on the second- and final-passage calendar are called up, except: Bill No. 980239, 990492, 990600, and that's the last one.
Thank you. The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990495.
An ordinance amending Subsection PM of Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code," by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 1st Ward, the 2nd Ward, the 39th A Ward, and FINAL READING - BILL 990495 the 39th B Ward.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass -
Will the clerk please read the title of Bill No. 990495. Thank you.
An ordinance amending Subcode PM of Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code," by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 5th Ward.
This bill FINAL READING - BILL 990495 having been read on two different days, the question now is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Council President Verna?
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. FINAL READING - BILL 990605 The clerk will please read the title of Bill No. 990605.
An ordinance amending Subcode PM of Title 4 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled "The Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code," by extending the emergency nuisance abatement program to include the 1st Ward, the 2nd Ward, the 39th A Ward, and the 39th B Ward.
This bill having been read on two different days, the question mow is, shall the bill pass finally? The clerk will please call the roll.
Councilwoman Tasco is voting aye. Council President Verna?
Aye. The ayes are 15, the nays are 0. A majority of all Members having voted in the affirmative, the bill passes. That concludes the calendar.
Are there any speeches on the part of -- Councilman Kenney, your light's on.
Okay. Are there any speeches on the part of the Minority? The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.
Thank you, Madam President, but I request to be last, Madam President. SPEECHES
I thank you. Are there any speeches on the part of the Majority? The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.
Thank you, Madam President. As many people may know by now, there's been reports in the media as to a potential health crisis with our firefighters, and potentially, for that matter, with for police officers relative to the issue of Hepatitis C. And the fact that our paramedics and firefighters are always, along with our police, on the scene first of a disaster or a catastrophe, whether they're crawling through a floor of a fire of a dwelling that's fully involved, where there's crack needles and crack vials on the floor, or whether or not they're on the scene of an accident where there is a large amount of blood and other body fluids that they need to deal with as a result of their duty. A couple things. I think that every firefighter and police officer should be tested. Home Access is a company in Pennsylvania which is providing to our firefighters now free testing SPEECHES kits which allow for the anonymous testing of our employees in this regard. They are not exposed by name but simply will be able to learn the results as to whether or not they are in fact infected with Hepatitis C. If all of our firefighters and police officers obtain the test or go through the testing process, which is very simple and done at home, we can get at least an idea as to what the problem may be as a result of the results of those tests. I think the City has a responsibility to what are our frontline troops here in the City of Philadelphia to do whatever is necessary to provide the resources and to do whatever is appropriate to support these firefighters -- right now, there's about 30 that have been tested and have tested positive. There is more testing ongoing as we speak. I think we need to work with the Fire Commissioner, with the City Administration, and with Council's Committee on Public Safety and Public Health to determine what exactly is an appropriate response to this problem facing our loyal and brave employees. This potentially could SPEECHES be a statewide problem or even a national problem so that, hopefully, we may be able to tap into resources that we may need in order to address the problem appropriately. The issue now is time. Assuming we find out how many people are involved and infected with this disease, the better we will be able to respond to it and the more cost-effective we may be able to respond to it. As time go on and people have obtained the virus and go untested and untreated, down the road, the cost that may face the City in potential liver transplants, which is the ultimate result of not being treated properly, could rise into the tens or twenties or hundreds of millions of dollars. So what I would urge is all of our firefighters and police officers to obtain the test, and for the City and the Police Commissioner and Council work together to monitor the situation and to find out what the extent of the problem is, and then to work forcefully and effectively to respond to these people so that their lives can be safe and that their families won't be devastated SPEECHES economically by this hardship. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.
Council Madam President, I think in its first year of independence that this City Council has received the approval of the voters of Philadelphia because all 12 Democrats and 3 Republican incumbents were elected by the people of Philadelphia. And I think it's a tremendous compliment and shows that people in Philadelphia understand the City Council. Thank you very much, and congratulations to everyone.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to add some comments about the election as well, but I want to say to Councilman Cohen that I both appreciate his comments, and I'm SPEECHES assuming that this is a new era of length of speech for Councilman Cohen. (Laughter.)
I believe it may have been the shortest in his time here. I'm looking forward to that in the new term. Seriously, Madam President, a lot has been said in the course of this campaign and election season and a lot has been written. And I, too, am pleased about everyone's return, but I feel compelled to make a few comments. In the heat of these kinds of battles and given some of individuals that were involved because of our personal and political relationships with them, a lot of things have happened in the course of this election season. And I just want to say that whether on the floor here in Council among colleagues or even on occasions with staff or people that we know or other friends that we have, in the course of that battle and in the heat of the activity that happens, a lot of things get said and a lot of things are done. We are public officials who are SPEECHES required to at times express very private feelings, but often in a very public fashion. And to any of my colleagues or staff here in the building or other individuals, for myself, any of the things that I may have said or done in the course of the campaign, if it made people uncomfortable, I certainly regret that, but I certainly continue to reserve the right to speak my mind when I feel compelled to do so, to try to do the right thing. But we understand that we're mature elected officials here and we know how to conduct the business of the City of Philadelphia. In my view at least -- and I learned this many, many years ago. Councilman Kenney and I had the occasion to play high school football, and I learned from a great coach that when the contest is over, it is over, and you're required by sportsmanship to extend a hand, to go over to whoever you had the day with and how ever things turned out, to congratulate them for how things went, for how the contest was conducted. And I've certainly done that. I've had an opportunity to talk to Mayor-elect Street and expect to talk to him in the days and weeks ahead. SPEECHES And so, for me, the election and the campaign and the rhetoric that go along with it really did come to a conclusion at 8 o'clock on Tuesday. We have business to do. I bring the same enthusiasm and excitement and energy and time that I've tried to display here in this body and which I bring to the conclusion of this term and certainly to January. I expect that we will work together, and we will be successful. We will agree on many things, and at times, we may disagree. But we will be respectful in those disagreements because the disputes between and among politicians are of less interest to the citizens of this city than the work that we do and the performance that we put out on our field here in City Council. And so I'm, with great excitement, looking forward to a new term. I think the days will be exciting. We will conduct the business of this city in a respectful fashion. We have a job to do, and I'm fully prepared to do that job going forward. And so I look forward to working with everyone. SPEECHES Generally, I'll probably just continue to be my normal, regular self here, over on the side. From time to time, I may talk on the phone even. But I look forward to working with you, Madam President, as we go forward. Thank you.
Thank you, Councilman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.
In the same vein as Councilman Nutter, I think we've had one of the most interesting elections I've ever been in in the City of Philadelphia. Obviously, it's been the closest election that has ever been in the City of Philadelphia. And it seems that it's not even over yet, as my friend Frank DiCicco just commented to me. But the commentaries have been and the questions have always been put forward by a lot of editorial boards about how this Council is going to react and act. I've been here 15 years. I don't ever think that this Council ever acted irresponsibly in my tenure here. I wasn't here when there were fights on the floor in City SPEECHES Council and that's what they keep on bringing up. I believe this Council has acted responsibly in the last seven years. There's been a new climate in the Council, a climate of discourse and opinions and openness in which every Councilperson is able to present his or her ideas, discuss them openly and publicly. And I think that we will have that atmosphere continue. I think that too many issues, during the last seven years, did not get the public discourse that they needed, and I believe that this time around, that is not going to happen again. We are going to move this city into the 21st century. We are going to create a middle class in this city. We are going to bring back the population to this city. I think that we all have to commit ourselves to, one, the creation of a tax base within our boundaries of the County of Philadelphia, and, two, the regrowth of our population and the creation of a city that it is not only for tourists but for all of the citizens that live here. So I believe that if we do that -- and I think this Council is committed to doing that, SPEECHES and I believe that we will also, with a new Charter change, have a greater responsibility with the educational system, and we have to be vigilant that the changes do not bring patronage, that they do not bring abuse, and that they actually do what they were structured to do -- bring accountability to the system and make the Mayor more accountable and make this Council more accountable for the success of our educational system. And I believe that this Council is ready. I think the additions to this Council of Blondell Reynolds and Wilson Goode will make us even stronger, and I believe that we will move forward in that manner and with that purpose. Thank you.
Thank you. The Chair at this time recognizes Cohen.
Thank you, Madam President. I agree with all of the comments expressed by Councilman Ortiz, save one. The question of the charter change and the educational supplement is far from decided. The number of no-votes was highly significant and all of the SPEECHES legal issues remain as to the rest, and the question in my judgment is that this will not be going into effect as of the scheduled date because it will be up to the courts. I agree with everything that's otherwise been said. We have to remember in the Council that our main responsibility is to the voters who sent us here. And if we keep that mind and any other sentiments expressed, I think this is going to be a very successful four years. Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark.
Thank you, Madam President. I express my appreciation and congratulations to my colleagues, all of whom won in a hotly-contested race, and the citizens of Philadelphia have chosen well in selecting you. While I have chosen to retire at the end of this session, my respect, admiration, and love for you as individuals and for the unique work that this Council does remains unabated. I SPEECHES will be watching you and cheering your exploits because I know that these little bare-knuckle fights keep our corpuscles moving, but that each of you has nestled in your heart what is best for the city and, the city is in good hands. Thank you.
Thank you. I had said in the caucus that I was extremely proud of each and every one of my colleagues, and I wanted to offer my congratulations to them. I know that we all are working for the same goals. Will we always agree on every issue? Absolutely not. But I will tell you, as a body, we all want to see the same things: we want Philadelphia to be a better place, to work, and to rear our children. I think if we work together, we could all sees those things accomplished. And I, too, am looking for many wonderful things to be happening in the next four years, and I am very, very excited about it. At this time, I would like to recognize Longstreth.
Madam SPEECHES President, I think that everyone in this room and most Americans recognize the fact that the fastest-growing segment of the American population are those of us who are fortunate enough to be 65 years of age or more. (Laughter.)
During the pre-election data that was developed by our friends at the editorial boards of the two newspapers in town, it was suggested that Councilman Cohen and I step back because of our advanced years. Well, it gives me great pleasure to tell you, if you failed to notice it, that Mr. Cohen led the Democratic candidates for at-large in his total votes recorded, and I led the Republicans for the total votes recorded. And I would like to simply say that the I'm glad that the people were a little more discerning than the newspapers. (Laughter.)
Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill. SPEECHES
Thank you, Madam President. Earlier today when William Penn was here, some of us may have noticed him looking over at Councilman Longstreth's empty desk. The Councilman was out on some business. And I think it was just to say hello to him, 'cause the questions I get asked most about Councilman Longstreth are, is it true he introduced William Penn to his wife? (Laughter.)
Is it true that when William Penn left Philadelphia, he had a deal with Thacher that Thacher would stay and play football for Princeton? And was it also true that the only time William Penn came back was to watch Thacher play football at Princeton? But we have among us someone that's, I think, as important to the history of Philadelphia as William Penn, and certainly a treasure. And when you talk about loyalty, I think those people that have had Thacher as a friend can attest to his loyalty, but loyalty to one's alma mater, I would question anyone can match Thacher's record. SPEECHES He played football for Princeton so he attended all the games when he was there. But for decorated service in World War II, he has attended every Princeton football game home and away since then. And that's a period, I believe, of over 60 years. Today, Thacher is celebrating his 80th birthday, and -- at least he says it's his 80th; William Penn might have some other numbers for us. (Laughter.)
But it's his official 80th birthday, and I would ask us to share in Philadelphia's joy on Thacher's reaching this milestone two days after his reelection, and I would ask Councilman DiCicco -- who I believe at least thinks he has the best voice in City Council and may actually have it, but Thacher would be the only one to compete with him -- to start us in a rendition of "Happy Birthday," and if we could stand and celebrate it, I would appreciate it.
That would be great. ("Happy Birthday" sung to Councilman ADJOURNMENT Longstreth.) (Applause.)
The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Clark for a motion to adjourn.
Madam President, I move that this body be adjourned till Thursday -
It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Wednesday, November 10, 1999. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. And Council will stand adjourned until Wednesday, November 10, 1999. ADJOURNMENT (Adjourned at 11:40 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, November 4, 1999 were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter